'Take extra care': Christmas and New Year road safety campaign continues this week

As Garda Síochána’s Christmas and New Year road safety campaign continues until January 5, Cork motorists are being reminded to slow down and take extra care.

During the past week Gardaí carried out nearly 2,100 checkpoints nationwide.

Over 4,600 drivers were penalised for speeding offences, including a driver in Limerick driving at 207km/h in a 100km/h zone.

149 people were arrested during this period for driving under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol and drugs).

Over 435 vehicles were seized by Gardaí for a range of offences under the Road Traffic Act, 1961, up to December 28.

150 fixed charge notices were issued for driving while using a mobile, with 45 fixed charge notices issued for seat belt offences.

A Garda spokesperson said: “This year’s Christmas and New Year road safety appeal focuses on the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and the devastating loss of life and serious injuries it can cause.

“An Garda Síochána is appealing to all those who will be taking to the roads over the Christmas period to slow down, take extra care and to give your driving your full attention.” 

During the fourth week of the campaign, between Monday December 22 and Sunday December 28 , there were three fatalities on Irish roads along with eight serious collisions that resulted in a number of people receiving serious and life threatening injuries.